The dogs we know today are undergoing an unprecedented transformation. According to recent studies, we are witnessing a third wave of domestication, driven by the human desire for pets that are friendlier, calmer, and better suited to an urban and sedentary lifestyle.
From Working Companions to Household Friends
For centuries, dogs played essential functional roles: guarding homes, hunting pests, and herding livestock.
However, in recent decades, owners’ priorities have drastically changed. Now, dogs are primarily seen as companions and family members, which has impacted both their behavior and their genetic evolution.
Oxytocin: The Key to the Human-Dog Connection
One of the most revealing discoveries in this transformation is the role of oxytocin, the social bonding hormone.
A study conducted by Linköping University in Sweden analyzed how this hormone influences the relationship between dogs and their owners. The research showed that oxytocin has enhanced dogs’ ability to interact with humans and seek help when needed.
In the study, 60 golden retrievers participated in an experiment where they had to open a treat jar that was impossible to open.
Researchers recorded how long it took for them to turn to their owners for help. It was observed that dogs with a specific genetic variant of the oxytocin receptor were more likely to seek human support, especially after receiving a nasal spray with the hormone.
These findings confirm that domestication has shaped the genes that control dogs’ social sensitivity, strengthening the bond between the two species.
Three Stages of Domestication
The evolution of domestic dogs has gone through three major phases:
- First wave: Occurred between 40,000 and 14,000 years ago, when wolves began approaching human settlements to feed on food scraps.
- Second wave: After the Industrial Revolution, when the middle class began breeding dogs for aesthetic and companionship purposes.
- Third wave (today): Driven by modern lifestyles, where dogs are bred to be more sociable, calm, and suited for indoor living.
Challenges and Solutions in Modern Dog Ownership
With increasing urbanization, the way we raise and train dogs is affecting their behavior. In the past, dogs had more freedom to explore their environment, whereas today, many spend most of their time in apartments or small houses without enough physical activity.
This has led to new issues, such as increased anxiety, fearfulness, and excitability in certain breeds. Dogs with higher levels of energy and stress are more likely to end up in shelters, as they do not always meet their owners’ expectations.
How Can We Better Adapt to This New Reality?
- Avoid overprotection: Shielding a dog too much from people and other animals can hinder its socialization and increase anxiety.
- Encourage physical and mental activity: Regular walks and interactive toys help reduce stress.
- Consult professionals: Veterinarians and trainers can provide guidelines for balanced training and education.
- Rethink the role of pets: Instead of expecting them to fully adapt to a sedentary lifestyle, we should allow them more freedom of action within reasonable limits.
Conclusion
Dogs have come a long way since their initial domestication, and today we are witnessing a new evolutionary shift.
As responsible owners, it is essential to understand these processes and adapt our practices to ensure the well-being of our pets. In this ever-changing world, the key is to find a balance between harmonious coexistence and the natural needs of our canine companions.